french architect odile decq has completed the ‘(phantom) l’opéra restaurant‘, which recently opened in the palais garnier located in paris, france. recessed within the historical building, visitors pass the facade’s original pillars to enter the undulating interior. the mezzanine space is carefully integrated to resist touching the existing structure’s walls, columns and roof. the contemporary addition compliments the classical details of the vaulted stone ceiling without altering history.

accommodating and seating 90 guests at one time, the large floor plate is suspended with concealed steel plates. a glass wall encompasses the interior isolating the space from the existing shell. the billowing white structure touches down to the lower level producing integrated organic supports. the striking red chairs, benches, and floors produce a theatrical character reminiscent of the phantom of the opera which was once performed within the auditorium.

we can understand the will to leave the existing building physically “untouched” but at the expense of such heaviness, better do nothing.
What a waste ! Even the red is not the right one !
Reminds me of Charles Mingus saying:

The red is terribly heavy-handed – would have liked to have seen a little more finesses there with some variety, even if it was subtle. Does OD intend to patent this red like Yves Klein did his blue? She could collect royalties from Louboutin!

As for the forms and the way they invade the existing space, I rather like it.

I visited this restaurant and it is an awesome space! The balance of history with modern architecture is a wonderful and unique experience. The view of the city from the second floor is breathtaking. Great project!

Out of the many examples of architects that destroy or knock down old buildings to become the next “starchitect”, this is a refreshing example of a project that does not ruin our city’s treasures. Bravo to this architect for successfully incorporating something new while maintaining an important piece of history.

to pursue with my comment which has been truncated (moderator?) and written before the layouts were visible on this page:
the layouts are outstanding, the glass curtain running behind the pillars is amazing. Nonetheless this punk white blob is heavy and apparently not so in harmony with the Palais Garnier. I wonder how long it will stay white. This is written from pictures viewing. As usual, architecture needs full immersive perception to be understood, i’ll come back for an update after a visit. Might be in a long time though…

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